This hidden eden tucked in an industrial area east of Chinatown is a Thai version of Restaurant Depot and Smart & Final rolled into one, providing access to some amazing Asian products—everything from fragrant curry pastes to springy rice noodles. Take home some freshly made som tum (papaya salad) from the food stall outside. 1100 N. Main St., Chinatown.

Since 1993 the Fermanian family’s popular mini-chain has served as a convenient portal to Middle Eastern ingredients (particularly those from Armenia). It also offers outrageous deals on everyday produce. Don’t shy away from Lebanese olive oils, Bulgarian feta, Iranian mortadella, Saudi Arabian cordials, and Moroccan sardines.